MIT Chapel renovation, Building W15

The renewal of the iconic MIT Chapel building at the heart of campus protected architectural details while restoring the ability of this space to serve all faiths in our community.

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MIT Chapel renovation, Building W15

48 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA

Status:Complete

Themes:Renovation and renewalEnhancement of life and learning

Completion:2015

The renewal of the iconic MIT Chapel building at the heart of campus protected architectural details while restoring the ability of this space to serve all faiths in our community.

Overview

Status

Complete

Completion Date

2015

Themes and priorities

Renovation and renewal

Enhancement of life and learning

Designed by Finnish American architect Eero Saarinen, the MIT Chapel was dedicated along with Saarinen’s Kresge Auditorium in May of 1955. The Chapel serves as a non-denominational gathering place for the MIT community, offering space for worship, meditation, and private ceremonies. The renewal of the Chapel restored this iconic example of mid-twentieth century modern architecture.

During the renewal process, the stained glass walls were repaired, restored, and protected, and the spire and bell tower were removed temporarily to allow the roof to be replaced. Additional exterior work included brick repair and repointing, and the rebuilding of the central skylight. The rebuilt moat incorporates a new filtration system and design elements to prevent water leakage. This work restored the beauty of the moat, which allows a soft secondary light to fill the Chapel through openings at the base of the walls. Inside the Chapel, its travertine floors were upgraded and renewed, its interior brick cleaned, wood surfaces refinished as needed, and new railings were added to the organ loft. Major systems such as HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection were replaced or upgraded as needed.

Scope

Design Features

Rebuild moat to prevent water leakage. Rebuild filtration system to reduce extensive manual cleaning currently required.

Restore existing stained glass window walls, including new stainless steel (painted) framing system and reinstallation of remaining stained glass within the existing system.

Exterior repairs, including roof replacement, rebuilding of existing skylight, and brick repair/repointing as required. (Note that the spire will be removed during roof replacement and replaced upon completion.)

Sustainable Design Elements

Mechanical systems and associated controls that will allow for better environmental emissions and energy efficiency. A new Building Management System controls the building climate based on real-time occupancy and provides immediate notification of maintenance needs.